Why care about social media? Well, actually, a lot of people don't. But that's the thing - social media is an extremely untapped resource by the average person. Perhaps it's a fear of the unknown. Or maybe all of this RSS RT BRB G2G TTFN #TCOT nonsense has just become too darn muddled to bother with.
I don't believe that everyone needs to be converted into some kind of Facebook or Twitter "power user." Some people find great value in casually using social networking services. Nor is it my goal to inhibit those people that would like to learn the intricacies of networking through social media.
My goal is simple. I want to help inform and instruct the average person on the uses, etiquette, and potential of social media. And I mean that in the broadest sense. Breaking down the components of services that have networking value so that you - the businessman or women, the student, the employee, the film producer, the radio personality, the politician, the comedian, the grandparent, the small business owner - so that you can get your message out and use the tools available to you in the best way.
Who am I to offer this kind of advice? My curiosity on all things social media-esque started early on when I started my first website in middle school. Since then I've gone on to run a personal blog, coffee blog, podcast, and multiple twitter accounts. My first big step into the professional side of social media happened last year when I ran the social networking side of Idaho Congressman Raul Labrador's primary race. Outmaneuvering his opponent on the digital front, Congressman Labrador was able to pull ahead on a near defeat. Two videos having to do with the campaign went viral, one of which I posted. Since that time I've been working on several undisclosed projects in the political world and film industry. In addition, I've been a guest on the Austin Hill Show at 580KIDO to talk about various aspects of social media.
Thank you for sharing interest in this untapped resource that is networking through social media. Let's keep it simple folks. Real simple. Will you join the conversation?
Colin